Nick Castellanos came off the bench and smashed a game-winning home run to help the Philadelphia Phillies defeat the Arizona Diamondbacks in the first game of the series.
However, he conducted interviews with reporters and the broadcast booth in the clubhouse following the game, which led to some offensive remarks from Phillies supporters. When questioned about Rob Thomson’s recent lack of playing time, Castellanos was direct and chastised him for “questionable” communication.
Following those interviews, Nick’s wife, Jess Castellanos, sent a message for Phillies fans on Twitter/X. In addition to calling them out, she advised them to concentrate on the postseason rather than criticizing Nick for his remarks made after the game.
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Jess Castellanos defends Nick Castellanos amid fan backlash
“I know everyone wants to find a problem with Nick or bait him into a problem, but it’s time to get over it.” On social media, Jess Castellanos posted. “Focus on the postseason and winning baseball games and stop crying about the pieces you have to get the job done and root for them to do well instead.”
Her remarks followed a contentious postgame interview in which Castellanos was questioned about playing a smaller role. In such a scenario, any athlete would feel uncomfortable and defensive.
However, Castellanos’ remarks only infuriated irate Phillies supporters more because he has previously been at the center of various Phillies disputes.
He was benched earlier in the season after being withdrawn for a defensive substitute due to remarks he made to Rob Thomson. Since they were then in a close battle with the New York Mets, they both moved on from it.
But now that the Phillies have secured the NL East and are attempting to secure a first-round bye and a possible number one seed, Castellanos’ remarks and annoyances have caused the team’s supporters to retaliate against the $100 million outfielder.
In response to the criticism from Phillies supporters, Jess punched back, telling them that this year is one of the team’s greatest opportunities to win the World Series and that they should instead focus on the postseason.
Given that it has worked well for him with Max Kepler starting in right field, Castellanos should accept this platoon position.
The 2025 Phillies may have one of the strongest opportunities to win their third World Series since some players may be going in free agency and others are growing elderly.
This October, Castellanos will be crucial for the Phillies, particularly when facing left-handed pitchers. Even though Jess notes that Phillies supporters can become irritated with Castellanos’ performance, they must continue to support the slugger since he is a crucial member of the club going into the 2025 postseason.